Load applied on osseointegrated implant by transfemoral bone-anchored prostheses fitted with state-of-the-art prosthetic components.

Background: This study presented the load profile applied on transfemoral osseointegrated implants by bone-anchored prostheses fitted with state-of-the-art ÖSSUR microprocessor-controlled Rheo Knee XC and energy-storing-and-returning Pro-Flex XC or LP feet during five standardized daily activities.

Methods: This cross-sectional cohort study included 13 participants fitted with a press-fit transfemoral osseointegrated implant. Loading data were directly measured with the tri-axial transducer of an iPecsLab (RTC Electronics, USA) fitted between the implant and knee unit. The loading profile was characterized by spatio-temporal gaits variables, magnitude of loading boundaries as well as onset and magnitude of loading extrema during walking, ascending and descending ramp and stairs.

Findings: A total of 2127 steps was analysed. The cadence ranged between 36 ± 7 and 47 ± 6 strides/min. The absolute maximum force and moments applied across all activities was 1322 N, 388 N and 133 N as well as 22 Nm, 52 Nm and 88 Nm on and around the long, anteroposterior and mediolateral axes of the implant, respectively.

Interpretation: This study provided new benchmark loading data applied by transfemoral bone-anchored prostheses fitted with selected ÖSSUR state-of-the-art components. Outcomes suggested that such prostheses can generate relevant loads at the interface with the osseointegrated implant to restore ambulation effectively. This study is a worthwhile contribution toward a systematic recording, analysis, and reporting of ecological prosthetic loading profiles as well as closing the evidence gaps between prescription and biomechanical benefits of state-of-the-art components. Hopefully, this will contribute to improve outcomes for growing number of individuals with limb loss opting for bionic solutions.